The specimen preparation facility includes a complete array of instruments for both SEM and TEM sample preparation.

• Wafering/cutting blades
• Polishing wheels
• Automated polishers
• Wire Saws
• Etchants

The JEOL JEE 4C Evaporator is used to coat TEM and SEM samples with carbon and other metals.
Click here for documentation.

Plasma cleaners significantly reduce specimen contamination during both SEM and TEM imaging and microanalysis.

• 2 VCR precision dimplers
• Gatan Dry pumping station for TEM holders
• South Bay Jet Electropolisher (single jet)
• Ultramicrotome as wells as freeze- and critical point- dryers available in Hogan Hall next door

Two darkrooms are housed within the facility which contain complete film or plate processing and printing. Equipment includes:

• Durst S-45 enlarger with a point source illuminator
• Omega-Arkay CD 20 film dryer
• PAKO print dryer
• Polaroid MP-3 camera stand

• Abrasive Slurry Disc Cutter
• Precision Ion Polishing System: the Model 691 PIPS is a completely self-contained, compact, bench-top precision ion polishing system designed to produce high quality TEM specimens creating large, clean, electron transparent areas. Click here for documentation.
• Gatan Ultrasonic Disc Cutter
• IBT
• Micromanipulator with OM